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Avian flu

Gain-of-function experiments on H7N9

Nature volume 500, pages 150–151 (2013)Cite this article

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Since the end of March 2013, avian influenza A viruses of the H7N9 subtype have caused more than 130 human cases of infection in China, many of which were severe, resulting in 43 fatalities. Although this A(H7N9) outbreak is now under control, the virus (or one with similar properties) could re-emerge as winter approaches.

To better assess the pandemic threat posed by A(H7N9) viruses, investigators from the NIAID Centers of Excellence in Influenza Research and Surveillance and other expert laboratories in China and elsewhere have characterized the wild-type avian A(H7N9) viruses in terms of host range, virulence and transmission, and are evaluating the effectiveness of antiviral drugs and vaccine candidates. However, to fully assess the potential risk associated with these novel viruses, there is a need for further research, including experiments that may be classified as 'gain of function' (GOF).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands

    Ron A. M. Fouchier

  2. University of Wisconsin-Madison, Wisconsin, USA

    Yoshihiro Kawaoka

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  1. Ron A. M. Fouchier
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  2. Yoshihiro Kawaoka
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20 co-authors

Corresponding authors

Correspondence to Ron A. M. Fouchier or Yoshihiro Kawaoka.

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Including a full list of co-authors (PDF 820 kb)

Related links

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Related links in Nature Research

Limited airborne transmission of H7N9 influenza A virus between ferrets

Avian flu: Extra oversight for H7N9 experiments

H5N1 virus: Transmission studies resume for avian flu

Pause on avian flu transmission studies

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Fouchier, R., Kawaoka, Y. & 20 co-authors. Gain-of-function experiments on H7N9. Nature 500, 150–151 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1038/500150a

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Comments

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  1. Sarah Rain

    As for me I think that there is no proof that the creation of a dangerous airborne virus through forced mutation in the lab will in any way be similar or follow the same path as any that might be produced in the wild. There is plenty of proof that laboratory viruses have escaped from what are called secure labs and plenty of proof that these types of airborne viruses can be weaponized to the detriment of the human race.

    The hubris of the scientists that want to work with these viruses! Why don't they work to cure a disease that we are already plagued with instead of making up a new plague.
    I think Google know more.

  2. Sarah Rain

    I am not qualified to judge this matter, but I would like to know that there is a clear scientific consensus that the possible benefits from these experiments are worth the risks.
    From the press reports, I am not sensing that this scientific consensus exists. Is this an accurate perception?
    I also have to wonder if perhaps some of the goals of these experiments could be achieved with other, less lethal viruses. (The CDC web page states that more than 130 cases were reported, with 43 deaths ).

  3. Sarah Rain

    As I know for now, Hong Kong?s defence strategies are keeping the H7N9 virus at bay ? but for how long can we remain a fortress? Flu viruses are notorious for undergoing rapid genetic changes. The big fear is that H7N9 will acquire the capability for person-to-person transmission. If that happens it could become unstoppable.

  4. Sarah Rain

    As I know on the basis of the findings from these patients, diagnostic tests for the novel reassortant H7N9 viruses have been developed. Public health officials around the world continue to closely monitor this outbreak, which serves as a reminder of influenza viruses' unique capacity to evolve and cause respiratory tract infections in humans ...

  5. Sarah Rain

    Most human cases are exposed to avian influenza A(H7N9) virus through contact with infected poultry or contaminated environments, including live poultry markets. Since the virus continues to be detected in animals and environments, and live poultry vending continues, further human cases can be expected. Also I must sad that amazing kidkraft annabelle dollhouses see here

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